Ikat is a handwoven fabric with an extremely labor intensive and intricate process. The technique of making Ikat has its origins from around the world, including South East Asia, South America and West Africa. It’s an ancient art that was derived from the Malay word, ‘Mengikat’ which means to tie.
We are thrilled with the selection of dresses we have sourced featuring gorgeous ikat prints that replicate the intricate patterns of this age old textile.
The core fabrics used for producing ikat are silk & cotton, and the process used is called 'resist dyeing'. Warps and weft threads are interspersed so that the dye colors don't get mixed. These are then fastened on a wooden frame and put for dyeing. Then comes the intricate weaving method that converts the yarns into a beautiful fabric. The designs are made with vertical symmetry which results in a similar pattern on the sides.
Shop our selection of Ikat prints below!